Bethesda

Bethesda is both a quiet suburban community and an eclectic destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Welcome to Bethesda

A quiet suburb, and an entertainment destination all its own.

Situated just northwest of Washington, D.C. along the shores of the Potomac River, Bethesda is both a quiet suburban community and an eclectic destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Home to some of the area’s top schools, both public and private, Bethesda residents also enjoy easy access to high-paying jobs in central D.C. via conveniently located Metro stations. Despite its location just beyond the capital city’s boundaries, Bethesda residents still seem to be situated within the center of it all.
 
First inhabited by Natives for thousands of years, Bethesda’s colonial settlers were mostly farmers and the community was a rural one. The area grew toward the end of the 19th century and again after the conclusion of World War II, thanks to the vast expansion of the federal government and national security programs. In modern times, Bethesda has become a bustling city and major destination in its own right boasting modern amenities, entertainment, and spacious homes on lush, green lots.  
 

What to Love

  • A separate, suburban community with its own entertainment, recreation options, shopping, and trendy culinary scene
  • Bright downtown district home to over 700 retailers and other businesses
  • Involved neighborhoods with bustling social calendars
  • Easy access to central D.C. via the Metro

Local Lifestyle 

Bethesda has previously been ranked as one of the best places to live by Money, and it’s easy to see why. This highly sought-after community boasts a strong economy, plentiful amenities, great public transportation, and is situated 10 miles from the nation's capital, allowing locals to enjoy a more peaceful and spacious standard of living than what might be found in the heart of the city. Some of Maryland’s most opulent homes are found here, built in both classic Colonial and modern styles, thanks to the recent construction of newer homes throughout the community.
 

Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping 

Mussel Bar & Grille is a rustic-chic space specializing in its titular dish. Mussels doused in white wine sauce, spicy curry, Thai-style accompaniments, and a few more comforting classics can all be found at this Bethesda favorite, adored by the community for over a decade.
 
At Mon Ami Gabi, every meal begins with a freshly baked baguette and homemade whipped butter. A classic French bistro in every way, this go-to spot is one of Bethesda’s favorite places for brunch, authentic French pastries, and a few other French delicacies not frequently found in the United States. Mon Ami Gabi boasts three other locations in Virginia, Chicago, and Las Vegas, a testament to the success and popularity behind this brand.
 
Maine-style lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other seafood favorites featuring fresh finds from the Chesapeake Bay are served at Luke’s Lobster. With nearly 30 locations across the world and global shipping available, Bethesda locals feel lucky to have such a gem right in their own backyard. 
 
Dinner and a show are found at Woodmont Grill. Each night, patrons enjoy live jazz performances while savoring prime rib, jumbo lump crabcakes, smoked salmon, and juicy rotisserie chicken. One of Bethesda’s more upscale dining establishments, Woodmont Grill is chic, elegant, and perfect for celebrating all of life‘s special occasions.
 

Things To Do 

Being 10 miles from the hustle and bustle of central D.C., Bethesda enjoys a high number of peaceful spots to spend time outdoors. Cabin John Regional Park is one example, featuring multiple trails stretching across several miles. The hike and bike trails follow a natural stream which leads to one of the park’s several baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, and an indoor ice-skating rink open year-round. On the occasional rainy day, locals might seek out tickets to performances at The Music Center at Strathmore, a fine opportunity to enjoy classical music art exhibits, or afternoon tea. Children can develop creative and social skills at Imagination Stage. Imagination Stage was founded in 1979 and is the area’s largest theater space for the youth to enjoy performances, summer camps, and lessons.
 

Schools

Residents of Bethesda send their children to some of the area’s best schools. A few of these are:
 
  • Landon School, grades 3-12; this private all-boys school is the best of its kind in Maryland boasting a perfect 100% graduation rate
  • Holton-Arms School, grades 3-12; this private all-girls school is one of the top in the nation, with one of the best college preparatory programs around
  • Georgetown Preparatory School, grades 9-12; graduates of the top Catholic school in Maryland perform higher than most other students on college entrance exams
  • Walt Whitman High School, grades 9-12; U.S. News & World Report scored WWHS a 99.38/100%
  • Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, grades 9-12; one of the top public schools in Maryland boasts a highly ranked college preparatory program, and a challenging, all-encompassing curriculum
 
 

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